The release of Census 2011 statistics has created some interesting opportunities for analysis and scrutiny at local levels. A new study, using Census data, has delved deep into output areas to show how ethnic group segregation has changed in neighbourhoods over the last decade.

Dollis Hill in Brent and Plaistow North in Newham, for example are the most diverse electoral wards in England and Wales but are both in districts which have seen a decrease in segregation.

Leicester, Birmingham, Manchester and Bradford, along with other large cities, have recorded a decrease in segregation for most ethnic groups and interestingly the data shows that rural areas and small cities and towns are becoming more ethnically mixed.

Change in residential spread 2001-2011 for the Chinese and Indian groups. Click on the image to enlarge

The picture is one of increased residential mixing in the largest cities in England and Wales. An important mechanism for this change is movement from cities to suburban and rural areas, in particular by families. Cities are attractive to young people, recent immigrants and students. New arrivals to the UK may only stay a short time in one place, their 'settlement area', before leaving the UK or moving away from these areas. This movement away from ethnically diverse urban areas is a process common to all ethnic groups.

Change in segregation for London, metropolitan cities and other large cities. Click on the image to enlarge

Catney found that inner London has experienced a drop in segregation for most ethnic groups although a 3% increase in segregation by white British is also recorded. The chart below shows the change in segregation for London, metropolitan cities and other large cities.